Joy

Joy is an indescribable feeling. This feeling, the world can’t give it to you and the world can’t take it away. It’s an internal feeling of extreme gladness. I’ve learned in my 30 years of life that having a significant other doesn’t define it. Maintaining financially isn’t going to sustain it. Going to the gym makes me feel good yes! But, Joy? You have to make a decision to choose joy. Well, What is joy? Dictionary.com defines, "joy as a feeling of great pleasure and happiness."

I reflect back to a time in my life when I just felt there was a void missing. I was a constant club goer. I love to dance and that was my excuse for the time being and I was sticking with it! Tequila with a splash of Red Bull, it was the start of escaping reality into a fantasy world! Of course, that was only a temporary feeling of great pleasures. Wake up the next day feeling worse than I did yesterday. Not to mention the problems were still in place awaiting for my attention.

Furthermore, research sums up the difference between joy and happiness. A person pursues happiness but chooses joy. I encourage everyone including myself to intentionally choose joy. If you ask me, joy is understanding and knowing your source in the midst of trials and tribulations. Although you see it, it doesn’t affect your peace. It may shake us but we can pull on God’s strength today to not allow it to break us. Doesn’t that sound like a place you and I shall remain in? Especially with so much going on around us today. Joy is essential.

"Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is my strength!”

Nehemiah 8:10

Coach Lew-Sapp